How to Build an Accessible Home

If you need to build an accessible home, there are some key considerations you should factor into your planning. Nearly every area of a home will likely need some modifications, and by thoughtfully charting out those needs, you’ll narrow down how to make a home fully ADA-friendly, from roll-in showers to countertops accessible for those who use a wheelchair. 

Entries and exits

One of the most challenging areas of a home for people with disabilities is often the entryway. Many homes are built with steps leading to the front door, which makes it difficult for a wheelchair to comfortably get through. When building an accessible home, consider making the entryway as low to the ground as possible, with ramps and railings to help those who use a wheelchair enter safely. If a low entryway isn’t possible due to the orientation of the house, consider installing a chair lift.

Keep a clear path

When designing a home for those who use mobility aids, ease of movement should be a key factor. Narrow hallways and doorways will present a challenge for navigating in a chair or walker, so design the floor plan with this in mind. Hallways should be wide enough for a chair to fully turn around in—at least 32 inches—and wide doorways should be included for every room. French doors are a great option for accessible homes.

Consider functionality

Two rooms that require some careful planning are the bathroom and kitchen. Both rooms typically have appliances that aren’t necessarily ADA-friendly, meaning some adjustments should be made.

In the bathroom, the areas to think about are the shower/tub, toilet, and sink. When designing a shower, consider installing a roll-in entry. You might also consider making the entire bathroom a wet room by installing a drain in the center to deal with splashes from the shower. An accessible shower should have a seat and handrails, with shower handles that are easy to reach. The toilet should be raised, with handrails for easy access, and the sink and countertop should be at a lower height for wheelchair users.

The main things to keep in mind for an accessible kitchen design are countertop height and access to storage and cooking. Countertops should be lower than in an average kitchen—aim for 34 inches high to enable wheelchair users to prepare food at a comfortable height. The kitchen sink should also be adjusted to allow for a wheelchair user’s knees to fit underneath while washing up. This can be achieved by installing a shallow sink at an appropriate height, with the drain placed in the rear of the sink so the piping isn’t blocking the chair from rolling underneath.

Finding contractors

When you’re ready to get the ball rolling, be sure to find contractors who can build with accessibility in mind. The right contractors will understand the importance of creating an ADA-compliant home. Kevin Szabo Jr. Plumbing is a great option for your plumbing, HVAC, and electrical needs.

An accessible home doesn’t have to be purely about function—when working with contractors and architects, seek out inspiring examples to help guide your design.

Keep possible restrictions in mind

When you’re getting ready to build, remember to get a property surveyor to take land measurements to determine exact boundaries and potential restrictions for your home. A property surveyor can help you determine exactly what should be done to make a home fully ADA-compliant, ensuring you haven’t missed any details in your design.

Building an accessible home doesn’t have to be difficult, so long as you’re careful in your design work and planning. Consider each room of the home and make adjustments where needed, consulting experts who can help guide your planning. Do your research and find contractors who have experience building accessible homes, and keep your mind at ease as you build. 

Guest contributor: Patrick Young